CHICAGO -- Indians catcher Yan Gomes will be eligible to come off Major League Baseball's seven-day concussion list on Friday in Kansas City. Manager Terry Francona has a feeling Gomes will be doing everything he can to be activated that night.

"I'd be surprised if he's not raring to go," Francona said on Tuesday.

Prior to the opener of Cleveland's three-game series against the White Sox, Gomes did some running and pregame hitting as part of his progression to full activities. Francona noted that the catcher looked and felt improved since suffering a mild concussion on Thursday in Minnesota.

Gomes was struck in the side of the mask by a pitch that deflected off Minnesota batter Kurt Suzuki. Cleveland's starting catcher was placed on MLB's seven-day list on Saturday, pushing rookie Roberto Perez into the lead role.

Francona was encouraged by Gomes' progress on Tuesday.

"He's having a really good day," said the manager. "Even when I saw him in the lobby this morning, he looks a lot clearer in his eyes. He's done and will do more today. ... Friday's his day. Unless he has a setback somewhere -- which it doesn't look like he [will] -- he'll probably be ready to go."

Through 109 games this season, Gomes has hit .284 with 17 home runs and 53 RBIs. Gomes has been one of Cleveland's hottest hitters in the second half, posting a .351 average to go along with five home runs, nine doubles, 17 RBIs and a .974 OPS through 29 games.

To help the depth behind Perez, the Indians acquired veteran catcher Chris Gimenez from the Rangers on Sunday in exchange for future considerations. Francona noted that he has not decided yet whether Gimenez will start a game during the current series.

"Because of his versatility, having him on the bench is pretty helpful," Francona said. "And he doesn't know our pitchers yet that much, but he could start a game. We'll see."